Source : PERTHNOW NEWS
A proposal has been revealed for Northbridge’s first on-site microbrewery and micro-distillery, offering patrons an opportunity to produce their own spirits and take them home.
The proposal includes a large internal venue and a 413sqm rear courtyard and alfresco area capable of hosting events, functions and food trucks. The total patron capacity is expected to reach about 800 people.
The James, at 233 James Street in Northbridge, will focus on WA food, beverages, live entertainment and interactive distilling experiences rather than a traditional late-night nightclub model.
According to the application, the venue will feature “Northbridge’s first on-premise micro-distillery designed and installed by experienced local professionals”, enabling patrons to make their own gin or vodka under expert guidance and take home their creations.
“The proposed premises seeks to enhance the range and quality of food and beverage offerings available within the James Street corridor and broader Northbridge precinct,” the application states.
The operators say the venue aims to cater for a broad range of customers, from local residents and office workers to tourists and eventgoers, supporting Northbridge’s evolution as Perth’s premier entertainment and cultural precinct.
“The proposed premises will contribute to the ongoing development of the hospitality, liquor and tourism sectors within Northbridge by offering a distinct, experience-driven venue that complements the character of James Street,” the application says.
According to the plans, the venue will include a main bar and tasting hall featuring WA wines, craft beers and spirits, a charcuterie deli counter, a commercial kitchen, function rooms, retail bottle shop and a micro-distillery experience area.
Entertainment at the venue will include live music, jazz performances, producer-led tastings, educational masterclasses, rotating art displays and multicultural events.
The application says the aim of the venue is not to operate as a high-risk nightclub.
“The venue is intended to contribute positively to the activation and vibrancy of the James Street corridor without operating as a generic or high-risk nightclub model, as it operated previously,” it states.
According to the operators, the focus will be on seated dining, curated beverages experiences and cultural programming.
The application also highlights the site’s location in the heart of Northbridge’s entertainment district, close to public transport and existing hospitality venues.
“The premises is located within the Northbridge Precinct of the City of Perth, an area specifically identified within the city’s planning framework as the State’s principal entertainment, cultural and nightlife district,” the application states.
If approved, the trading hours will be up to midnight seven days a week, with the venue promoting a mix of food, beverages, low and zero-alcohol options.
Security for the venue will include CCTV cameras throughout the premises and ensuring they comply with liquor licensing security requirements.
The site is close to the Northbridge police station.
“The location is well serviced by public transport and pedestrian infrastructure and forms part of Perth’s primary entertainment and cultural precinct, where licensed hospitality uses are an established and anticipated component of the urban environment,” the application states.
Public comment on the proposed licence approval ends on June 25.
The proposal has attracted support from several organisations and stakeholders, including Tourism WA, the local politician and WA food and beverage producers.
